
The annual Holy Convocation of the Church of God in Christ (COGIC), which is considered the largest Pentecostal denomination in the United States, is set to leave Memphis post-2025, returning to St. Louis for the 2026 through 2028 conventions, according to statements from church officials. Bishop Brandon B. Porter confirmed that while this year's event will still grace Memphis, and it represents a significant gathering for the predominantly Black congregation, the city will see a pause in hosting after this iteration, as reported by Action News 5.
COGIC has a long-standing relationship with Memphis, having been hosted in the city for approximately a century, and despite an 11-year departure for St. Louis starting in 2010 due to elevated hotel costs, it had signaled a return in 2018 for the 2021 convocation which saw a delay until 2022 caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, returning to Memphis was a move welcomed by many for its historical significance, and its positive economic impact on the city, during its presence thousands flock to the Bluff City, infusing vitality and commerce into its streets; the announcement to relocate once more highlights ongoing logistical challenges, particularly in the realm of accommodations, as The Commercial Appeal has noted.
Bishop Porter pointed out that lodging issues, including the need for renovations at the Sheraton were a central concern, the Sheraton being the largest hotel in Memphis and recently acquired by the city, finding adequate space for the tens of thousands who attend has become increasingly difficult which forced church delegates to vote for the move in a recent meeting held in Louisville, Memphis Mayor Paul Young expressed his respect for COGIC's decision while also emphasizing the historical ties with the city, stressing hope for an improved hotel situation that could see the return of the event in 2029, as outlined in reports by WREG News.
"We all appreciate the deep history and significance of the Church of God in Christ to our city. While we are saddened by their decision to move the conference to St. Louis, we respect their choice and will continue to honor the legacy they have built here," Mayor Young told WREG News, indicating a mix of reverence for the church's legacy in Memphis and a somber acceptance of the current realities that necessitate the relocation. The Mason Temple, COGIC's world headquarters remains a lasting edifice to their historic bond with the city; despite the move, it stands as a reminder of the profound connection and the enduring spirit of the denomination within Memphis.